ILIGAN CITY – Five Abu Sayyaf Group members surrendered to Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of Joint Task Force Basilan, at the 101st Infantry Brigade headquarters in Barangay Tabiawan, Isabela City, Basilan on Wednesday afternoon, September 6.
Two of the surrenderers, alias “Idol” and “Piping,” were part of the Bayali Splinters and had warrants of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention.
The three other surrenderers were identified as Hussin, a supporter of slain ASG leader Furuji Indama, and alias “Rajim” and alias “Man.”
“The surrenders were made possible through the collaborative efforts of the intelligence units, 18th Infantry Battalion, Joint Peace and Security Team, and the local government units of Albarka and Sumisip,” Luzon said.
The surrenderers handed over two 5.56mm M16 rifles, one 40mm grenade launcher, one M1 Garand rifle, and one Colt AR-15.
Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command commander Major Gen. Steve Crespillo commended JTF Basilan for this accomplishment.
“Rest assured that we will continue to strengthen our collaboration with our partners and stakeholders to sustain peace in Basilan and its neighboring provinces,” Crespillo said.